Electronic fabric

ABSTRACT

An electronic fabric can include a first fabric layer, a second fabric layer, and a plurality of electronic devices. The first fabric layer can include a first set of conductive wires extending longitudinally in a first direction. The second fabric layer can define a plurality of apertures, can include a second set of conductive wires extending longitudinally in a second direction, and can be coupled to the first fabric layer such that each of the first set of conductive wires is arranged at a location of one of the plurality of apertures. Each electronic device can have a first terminal electrically coupled with one of the first set of conductive wires and a second terminal electrically coupled to one of the second set of conductive wires. The first terminal can be electrically coupled with the one of the first set of conductive wires through one of the plurality of apertures.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.62/153,681, filed Apr. 28, 2015 and U.S. Provisional Application No.62/327,630, filed Apr. 26, 2016. The entire disclosure of each of theabove applications are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates to an electronic fabric that includes oneor more electronic components, and, more particularly, to a flexiblefabric that incorporates a plurality of individually addressableelectronic components such as light emitting diodes.

BACKGROUND

The background description provided herein is for the purpose ofgenerally presenting the context of the disclosure. Work of thepresently named inventors, to the extent it is described in thisbackground section, as well as aspects of the description that may nototherwise qualify as prior art at the time of filing, are neitherexpressly nor impliedly admitted as prior art against the presentdisclosure.

Electronics and electronic devices are increasingly being incorporatedinto everyday items. For example, light emitting diodes (“LEDs”) havebeen added to apparel and other fabric items for stylistic and otherillumination purposes. In such items, electronic components and theirassociated componentry (e.g., the power source, electrical connectionsand other circuitry) are typically added (sewed, glued, etc.) to analready manufactured item. The appearance of the resulting item may beless appealing, and the manufacturing process may be more complex and/orexpensive, than what is desired.

Accordingly, there remains a need for an improved electronic fabric thataddresses the above described and other disadvantages.

SUMMARY

According to certain aspects of the present disclosure, an electronicfabric is disclosed. The electronic fabric can include a first fabriclayer, a second fabric layer, and a plurality of electronic devicescoupled to the second fabric layer. The first fabric layer can include afirst set of conductive wires extending longitudinally in a firstdirection. The second fabric layer can define a plurality of aperturesand can include a second set of conductive wires extendinglongitudinally in a second direction. The second fabric layer can becoupled to the first fabric layer such that each of the first set ofconductive wires is arranged at a location of one of the plurality ofapertures. Each of the plurality of electronic devices can have a firstterminal electrically coupled with one of the first set of conductivewires and a second terminal electrically coupled to one of the secondset of conductive wires. The first terminal can be electrically coupledwith the one of the first set of conductive wires through one of theplurality of apertures.

According to other aspects, the present disclosure relates to anilluminable fabric that includes a first fabric layer, a second fabriclayer, an insulation layer, and a plurality of light emitting diodes(LEDs). The first fabric layer can include a first set of conductivewires extending longitudinally in a first direction. The second fabriclayer can be coupled to the first fabric layer and including a secondset of conductive wires extending longitudinally in a second direction.The plurality of LEDs can be coupled to the first and second fabriclayers. Each of the plurality of LEDs can have a first terminalelectrically coupled with one of the first set of conductive wires and asecond terminal electrically coupled to one of the second set ofconductive wires. At least one of the first fabric layer, the secondfabric layer, and the insulation layer can define a plurality ofapertures, and the first terminal of each of the plurality of LEDs canbe electrically coupled with one of the first set of conductive wiresthrough one of the plurality of apertures.

According to certain aspects of the present disclosure, an illuminablefabric can include a fabric substrate, a first set of conductive wires,a second set of conductive wires, and a plurality of LEDs. The fabricsubstrate can have a first side and a second side opposite the firstside. The fabric substrate can also define a plurality of apertures,each of the plurality of apertures extends from the first side to thesecond side. The first set of conductive wires can extend longitudinallyin a first direction and be arranged on the first side of the fabricsubstrate. The second set of conductive wires can extend longitudinallyin a second direction and be arranged on the second side of the fabricsubstrate. The plurality of LEDs can be coupled to the fabric substrate.Each of the plurality of LEDs can have a first terminal electricallycoupled with one of the first set of conductive wires and a secondterminal electrically coupled to one of the second set of conductivewires through one of plurality of apertures.

According to further aspects of the present disclosure, an illuminablefabric can include a fabric substrate, a first set of conductive wires,a second set of conductive wires, and a plurality of LEDs. The first setof conductive wires can extend longitudinally in a first direction andbe arranged on the fabric substrate. The second set of conductive wirescan extend longitudinally in a second direction and be arranged on thefabric substrate. The second set of conductive wires can be electricallyinsulated from the first set of conductive wires. The plurality of LEDscan be coupled to the fabric substrate. Each of the plurality of LEDscan have a first terminal electrically coupled with one of the first setof conductive wires and a second terminal electrically coupled to one ofthe second set of conductive wires through one of plurality ofapertures.

Further areas of applicability of the present disclosure will becomeapparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It shouldbe understood that the detailed description and specific examples areintended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limitthe scope of the disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present disclosure will become more fully understood from thedetailed description and the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective, partially schematic view of an exampleilluminable fabric according to some aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a partial sectional view of an example illuminable fabricaccording to some aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a partial sectional view of another example illuminable fabricaccording to some aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 is a partial schematic view of an example LED assembly for usewith an illuminable fabric according to some aspects of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 5 is a partial sectional view of another example illuminable fabricaccording to some aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 is a partial sectional view of another example illuminable fabricaccording to some aspects of the present disclosure; and

FIGS. 7A and 7B are a partial perspective and partially schematic viewand a partial sectional view of another example illuminable fabricaccording to some aspects of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As discussed above, a need exists for an improved electronic fabric thatmore seamlessly integrates electronic componentry (such as, LEDs) intothe fabric such that items manufactured from the fabric have a betterappearance. Further, a need exists for an improved electronic fabricthat can be manufactured more easily and/or inexpensively, therebyresulting in a more easily manufactured/less expensive item made fromsuch fabric.

To address these and other needs, the present disclosure is directed toan electronic fabric that includes a plurality of electronic componentsarranged on a fabric substrate. The fabric substrate can have a singlelayer construction, or alternatively can be made of a plurality offabric layers. Two sets of conductive wires are arranged on the fabricsubstrate in various configurations. In each case, a conductive wirefrom one set of conductive wires is connected to one terminal, and aconductive wire from the other set of conductive wires is connected tothe other terminal, of each of the plurality of electronic components.In this manner, each electronic component may be energized by completinga circuit through, and applying a power source to, its associated wires.

The two sets of conductive wires are electrically insulated from eachother, connecting to each other only through the electronic components.In some aspects, an insulation layer is arranged between the two sets ofconductive wires. Alternatively or additionally, one or more insulatorsare arranged at each location where wires from the two sets wouldotherwise be in contact, e.g., where the wires cross each other. Thewires can be arranged on the fabric substrate in many ways. As anexample, one or more of the wires can be laminated on the fabricsubstrate. As another, wires can be woven into the fabric substrate.Other structures for coupling the wires to the fabric substrate arewithin the scope of the present disclosure.

The plurality of electronic components can be coupled to the fabricsubstrate individually, or as a group, e.g., attached to a layer (suchas a dielectric sheet) of the fabric substrate. In some aspects,terminals of the electronic components may be connected to contact pads.Such contact pads can be larger than the terminals of the electroniccomponents to assist with the electrical connection between theelectronic components and the plurality of wires and to provide agreater tolerance for misalignment between the elements.

In order to electrically couple the wires to the electronic components,one or more of the fabric substrate, insulation layers, etc. can defineone or more apertures (or holes) through which the terminals of theelectronic components can be connected to the wires. Depending on theparticular construction of the illuminable fabric, the apertures can beformed in the fabric substrate (or one or more layers thereof), aninsulation layer (such as a dielectric sheet), or a combination thereof.

Examples of specific configurations of various electronic fabrics aredescribed below. It should be appreciated that these examples are notlimiting, and aspects of the described examples can be combined,excluded, etc. to form an electronic fabric in accordance with thisdisclosure. Furthermore, while each of the examples below describes anelectronic component that includes two terminals, the present disclosureis equally applicable, mutatis mutandis, to electronic components withfewer or more terminals. Additionally, the examples described belowrelate to an electronic fabric that takes the form of an illuminablefabric. An illuminable fabric can be a particular type of an electronicfabric that includes a source of light or lighting as at least one ofits electronic components. It should further be appreciated that, whileeach of the examples below describes an illuminable fabric that includesone or more LEDs, the details of each of the examples could instead beapplied, mutatis mutandis, to a different type of electronic fabric thatincludes one or more electronic components different from LEDs. Exampleelectronic components include, but are not limited to, chipsets, WiFi,Bluetooth, and/or other communication devices, antennae, transceivers,sensors, and piezoelectric or other actuators.

Referring now to FIG. 1, an example illuminable fabric 100 according tosome aspects of the present disclosure is illustrated. The illuminablefabric 100 includes a fabric substrate 110, a first set of conductivewires 120, a second set of conductive wires 130, and a plurality of LEDs150. The fabric substrate 110 can be created from a number of textilefibers that are weaved, knitted, and/or otherwise coupled together.Depending on the type of textile fibers utilized, the fabric substrate110 can be bent, stretched, flexed, or otherwise manipulated in one ormore directions. In this manner, the illuminable fabric 100 can have aflexible construction and be utilized to form, or be a part of, numeroustypes of items, as more fully discussed below.

The first and second set of conductive wires 120, 130 can be arranged onthe fabric substrate 110. The first set of conductive wires 120 canextend longitudinally in a first direction 140, and the second set ofconductive wires can extend longitudinally in a second direction 145. Insome aspects, and as shown in FIG. 1, the first and second directions140, 145 can be substantially orthogonal to each other. In otheraspects, the first and second directions 140, 145 can be substantiallyparallel to each other (not shown), or arranged in any otherorientation.

The first set of conductive wires 120 and/or the second set ofconductive wires 130 can be arranged on the fabric substrate by beingwoven into the fabric substrate 110. In this manner, the wires of thefirst and/or second set of wires 120, 130 can be integrated directlyinto the fabric substrate 110. In other aspects, the first set ofconductive wires 120 and/or the second set of conductive wires 130 canbe arranged on the fabric substrate by being adhered to or formed on thefabric substrate 110, e.g., via an adhesive or by being laminated on thefabric substrate 110. Additionally or alternatively, the first and/orsecond sets of conductive wires 120, 130 can comprise a printed metal orelectronic ink that is formed, deposited, etc. on the fabric substrate110.

The plurality of LEDs 150 can be coupled to the fabric substrate 110.Each of the plurality of LEDs 150 has a first terminal 152 and a secondterminal 154. The first terminal 152 can be electrically coupled withone of the first set of conductive wires 120, and the second terminal154 can be electrically coupled with one of the second set of conductivewires 130. In this manner, each LED 150 can be individually addressed bycompleting a circuit with a power source (not shown) through itscorresponding wires of the first and second sets of conductive wires120, 130.

As shown in FIG. 1, the fabric substrate 110 can define a plurality ofapertures 112. The plurality of apertures 112 can be arranged at alocation proximate to where the first and second set of conductive wires120, 130 would otherwise be in contact, such as where they intersect, asshown in FIG. 1. Each of the plurality of apertures 112 can also bearranged at a location proximate to a location where one of theplurality of LEDs 150 is coupled to the fabric substrate 110. In thismanner, the first terminal 152 can be electrically coupled with one ofthe first set of conductive wires 120, and/or the second terminal 154can be electrically coupled with one of the second set of conductivewires 130, through one of the plurality of apertures 112.

The first and second set of conductive wires 120, 130 can be connectedto a power source (not shown) via a plurality of electrical connections180 formed/coupled/etc., e.g., on one or more edges of the fabricsubstrate 110. The electrical connections 180 can include, for example,a multiplexer or other type of electrical device that provides foraddressability of the individual LEDs 150. In some aspects, clips orother types of electrical connectors from the power source can beelectrically coupled to the electrical connections 180 to power the LEDs150. It should be appreciated that the aspects above are merelyexamples, and other types of electrical connections 180 are within thescope of the present disclosure.

Referring now to FIG. 2, a partial sectional view an example illuminablefabric 200 is shown. The illuminable fabric 200 is similar to theilluminable fabric 110 of FIG. 1. Specifically, the illuminable fabric200 comprises a fabric substrate 210, a first set of conductive wires220, a second set of conductive wires 230, and a plurality of LEDs 250.The partial sectional view of FIG. 2 is taken at a location where one ofthe plurality of LEDs 250 is electrically coupled with the first andsecond set of conductive wires 220, 230, as more fully described below.

The fabric substrate 210 can include a first fabric layer 214 and asecond fabric layer 216. The first fabric layer 214 can include thefirst set of conductive wires 220, and the second fabric layer 216 caninclude the second set of conductive wires 230. As mentioned above, thefirst and second set of conductive wires 220, 230 can be integrateddirectly into the fabric substrate 210 (e.g., into first fabric layer214 and second fabric layer 216, respectively), can be arranged on thefabric substrate 210 by being adhered to or formed on the fabricsubstrate 210 or one of its layers, e.g., via an adhesive or bylamination, or a combination thereof. In the illustrated example of FIG.2, the second fabric layer 216 defines a plurality of apertures 212through which an LED 250 can be electrically coupled with one of thefirst set of conductive wires 220.

The fabric substrate 210 further includes an insulation layer 218arranged between the first and second fabric layers 214, 216. Theinsulation layer 218 electrically insulates the first set of conductivewires 220 from the second set of conductive wires 230. The insulationlayer 218 can take many different forms. For example only, theinsulation layer 218 can comprise a dielectric sheet or other insulatingmaterial arranged between the first and second fabric layers 214, 216.In some aspects, the insulation layer 218 can comprise an insulatingadhesive that is used to couple the first fabric layer 214 to the secondfabric layer 216.

Each of the plurality of LEDs 250 includes a first terminal 252 and asecond terminal 254 through which the LED can be energized. The firstterminal 252 can be electrically coupled with one of the first set ofconductive wires 220, and the second terminal 254 can be electricallycoupled with one of the second set of conductive wires 230. As shown inFIG. 2, the first terminal 252 can be electrically coupled with one ofthe first set of conductive wires 220 through one of the apertures 212formed in the second fabric layer 216. In this manner, the second fabriclayer 216 can insulate (alone or in combination with insulation layer218) the first and second sets of conductive wires 220, 230 from eachother.

The connection between the first and second terminals 252, 254 and thefirst and second sets of conductive wires 220, 230, respectively, cantake any acceptable form. In the illustrated example, a conductive trace256 is utilized to electrically couple the wires 220, 230 and the LEDs250. In another example, an intermediate conductive layer (not shown),such as an anisotropic conductive film or a solution processedconductive file, can be utilized to electrically couple the wires 220,230 and the LEDs 250. In yet another example, and as described morefully below with respect to FIG. 4, one or more of the terminals 252,254 can be electrically coupled with a contact pad that is electricallycoupled with the wires 220, 230.

In some aspects, the fabric substrate 210 can also include a diffuser260 that is coupled to the first fabric layer 214 and/or the secondfabric layer 216. The diffuser 260 can be configured to providediffusion of light generated by the plurality of LEDs 250. The lightgenerated by the plurality of LEDs 250 can travel in a direction(downwardly in FIG. 2) toward and through the diffuser 260. In thismanner, and depending on the level of diffusion provided by thediffusion layer 260, the distribution of light from one or more of theplurality of LEDs 250 can be more uniform across the illuminable fabric200, rather as separate point sources of light provided by individualLEDs. It should be appreciated that, while shown as being coupleddirectly to the first fabric layer 214, the illustrated diffuser 260 canbe directly coupled with the fabric substrate 210 in otherconfigurations.

Referring now to FIG. 3, a partial sectional view another exampleilluminable fabric 300 is shown. The illuminable fabric 300 is similarto the illuminable fabrics 100, 200 of FIGS. 1-2. Specifically, theilluminable fabric 300 comprises a fabric substrate 310, a first set ofconductive wires 320, a second set of conductive wires 330, and aplurality of LEDs 350. Similar to FIG. 2, the partial sectional view ofFIG. 3 is taken at a location where one of the plurality of LEDs 350 iselectrically coupled with the first and second set of conductive wires320, 330.

The fabric substrate 310 can include a first fabric layer 314 and asecond fabric layer 316. The first fabric layer 314 can include thefirst set of conductive wires 320, and the second fabric layer 316 caninclude the second set of conductive wires 330. As mentioned above, thefirst and second set of conductive wires 320, 330 can be integrateddirectly into the fabric substrate 310 (e.g., into first fabric layer314 and second fabric layer 316, respectively), can be arranged on thefabric substrate 310 by being adhered to or formed on the fabricsubstrate 310 or one of its layers, e.g., via an adhesive or bylamination, or a combination thereof. In the illustrated example of FIG.3, the second fabric layer 316 defines a plurality of apertures 312through which an LED 350 can be electrically coupled with one of thefirst set of conductive wires 320.

The fabric substrate 310 further includes an insulation layer 318arranged between the first and second fabric layers 314, 316. Theinsulation layer 318 electrically insulates the first set of conductivewires 320 from the second set of conductive wires 330. The insulationlayer 318 can take many different forms. For example only, theinsulation layer 318 can comprise a dielectric sheet or other insulatingmaterial arranged between the first and second fabric layers 314, 316.In some aspects, the insulation layer 318 can comprise an insulatingadhesive that is used to couple the first fabric layer 314 to the secondfabric layer 316.

Each of the plurality of LEDs 350 includes a first terminal 352 and asecond terminal 354 through which the LED can be energized. The firstterminal 352 can be electrically coupled with one of the first set ofconductive wires 320, and the second terminal 354 can be electricallycoupled with one of the second set of conductive wires 330. As shown inFIG. 3, the first terminal 352 can be electrically coupled with one ofthe second set of conductive wires 320 through one of the apertures 312formed in the second fabric layer 316. In this manner, the second fabriclayer 316 can insulate (alone or in combination with insulation layer318) the first and second sets of conductive wires 320, 330 from eachother.

The primary difference between the illuminable fabric 300 and theilluminable fabric 200 described above is that the plurality of LEDs 350on illuminable fabric 300 are arranged on or in a dielectric sheet ofmaterial 358 that is coupled to the fabric substrate 310 (e.g., thesecond fabric layer 316). In this manner, and as mentioned above, theplurality of LEDs 350 can be coupled to the fabric substrate 310 as agroup rather than individually. It should be appreciated that groups ofless than the entire plurality of LEDs 350 may be arranged on or in adielectric sheet of material 358 such that one group of LEDs, multiplegroups of LEDs, or individual LEDs may be coupled to the same fabricsubstrate 310.

The connection between the first and second terminals 352, 354 and thefirst and second sets of conductive wires 320, 330, respectively, cantake any acceptable form. In the illustrated example, a conductive trace356 is utilized to electrically couple the first set of wires 320 andthe first terminal 352, and a direct physical connection electricallycouples the second set of wires 330 and the second terminal 354. Inanother example, an intermediate conductive layer (not shown), such asan anisotropic conductive film or a solution processed conductive film,could be utilized to electrically couple the wires 320, 330 and the LEDs350. In yet another example, and as described more fully below withrespect to FIG. 4, one or more of the terminals 352, 354 can beelectrically coupled with a contact pad that is electrically coupledwith the wires 320, 330.

The example fabric substrate 310 shown also includes a diffuser 360 thatis coupled to the first fabric layer 314 and/or the second fabric layer316. The diffuser 360 can be configured to provide diffusion of lightgenerated by the plurality of LEDs 350. The light generated by theplurality of LEDs 350 can travel in a direction (downwardly in FIG. 3)toward and through the diffuser 360. In this manner, and depending onthe level of diffusion provided by the diffusion layer 360, thedistribution of light from one or more of the plurality of LEDs 350 canbe more uniform across the illuminable fabric 300, rather as separatepoint sources of light provided by individual LEDs. It should beappreciated that, while shown as being coupled directly to the firstfabric layer 314, the illustrated diffuser 360 can be directly coupledwith the fabric substrate 310 in other configurations.

Referring now to FIG. 4, an example LED assembly 400 according to someaspects of the present disclosure is shown. The LED assembly 400includes one or more LEDs 450 and a plurality of contact pads 456. Oneof the plurality of contact pads 456 is connected to a first terminal452 of the LED 450, and another of the plurality of contact pads 456 isconnected to a second terminal 454 of the LED 450. The LED assembly 400can be utilized with any of the illuminable fabrics (100, 200, etc.)described herein. The contact pads 456 can be larger than the terminals452, 454, of the LED 450 to assist with the electrical connectionbetween the LED 450 and the first and second sets of wires (120, 130,220, 230, etc.) of the illuminable fabric. For example only, the contactpads 456 can provide for a larger or otherwise more suitable connectionpoint for electrical connections, which may provide for a greatertolerance for misalignment between the elements of the illuminablefabric.

The LED assembly 400 can also be coupled to, or form a part of, adielectric sheet 458 in or upon which the contact pads 456 can beformed. As described more fully below, the two contact pads 456 for eachLED 450 can be formed on the same or different sides of the dielectricsheet 458, depending on the particular design of the illuminable fabricof which it will be a part. While shown as being on the same side of thedielectric sheet 458, the contact pads 456 and the LED 450 canalternatively be on opposite sides, e.g., by having an electricalconnection through an aperture or via. In further examples, one or morecontact pads 456 can be on the same side as the LED 450, and one or moreother contact pads 456 can be on the opposite side.

Referring now to FIG. 5, a partial sectional view another exampleilluminable fabric 500 is shown. The illuminable fabric 500 is similarto the illuminable fabrics 100, 200, 300 of FIGS. 1-3. Specifically, theilluminable fabric 500 comprises a fabric substrate 510, a first set ofconductive wires 520, a second set of conductive wires 530, and aplurality of LEDs 550. Similar to FIGS. 2-3, the partial sectional viewof FIG. 5 is taken at a location where one of the plurality of LEDs 550is electrically coupled with the first and second set of conductivewires 520, 530.

The fabric substrate 510 can include a first fabric layer 514 and asecond fabric layer 516. The first fabric layer 514 can include thefirst set of conductive wires 520, and the second fabric layer 516 caninclude the second set of conductive wires 530. As mentioned above, thefirst and second set of conductive wires 520, 530 can be integrateddirectly into the fabric substrate 510 (e.g., into first fabric layer514 and second fabric layer 516, respectively), can be arranged on thefabric substrate 510 by being adhered to or formed on the fabricsubstrate 510 or one of its layers, e.g., via an adhesive or bylamination, or a combination thereof.

Each of the plurality of LEDs 550 includes a first terminal 552 and asecond terminal 554 through which the LED can be energized. The firstterminal 552 can be electrically coupled with one of the first set ofconductive wires 520, and the second terminal 554 can be electricallycoupled with one of the second set of conductive wires 530. The primarydifference between the illuminable fabric 500 and the illuminablefabrics 200, 300 described above is that the plurality of LEDs 350 onilluminable fabric 500 are arranged on or in a dielectric sheet ofmaterial 558 that is coupled to the fabric substrate 510 and arrangedbetween the first and second fabric layers 514, 516. In this manner, andas mentioned above, the plurality of LEDs 550 can be coupled to thefabric substrate 510 as a group rather than individually. It should beappreciated that groups of less than the entire plurality of LEDs 550may be arranged on or in a dielectric sheet of material 558 such thatone group of LEDs, multiple groups of LEDs, or individual LEDs may becoupled to the same fabric substrate 510. Furthermore, the dielectricsheet of material 558 can electrically insulate the first set ofconductive wires 520 from the second set of conductive wires 530,performing a function similar to the insulation layer 218, 318 describedabove with regards to illuminable fabrics 200, 300. In some aspects, thedielectric sheet of material 558 can comprise a ribbon of material,and/or parts of the dielectric sheet of material 558 can be removedduring or after the manufacturing process to expose the fabric substrate510.

In the illustrated example of FIG. 5, and in contrast to the examplesabove, the dielectric sheet of material 558 defines a plurality ofapertures 512 through which an LED 550 can be electrically coupled withone of the first set of conductive wires 520. The connection between thefirst and second terminals 552, 554 and the first and second sets ofconductive wires 520, 530, respectively, can take any acceptable form.In the illustrated example, a conductive trace 556 is utilized toelectrically couple the first and second sets of wires 520, 530 and thefirst and second terminals 552, 554, respectively. In another example,an intermediate conductive layer (not shown), such as an anisotropicconductive film or solution processed conductive film, could be utilizedto electrically couple the wires 520, 530 and the LEDs 550. In yetanother example, and as described above with respect to FIG. 4, one ormore of the terminals 552, 554 can be electrically coupled with acontact pad that is electrically coupled with the wires 520, 530.

The example fabric substrate 510 shown also includes a diffuser 560 thatis coupled to the first fabric layer 514 and/or the second fabric layer516. The diffuser 560 can be configured to provide diffusion of lightgenerated by the plurality of LEDs 550. In this manner, and depending onthe level of diffusion provided by the diffusion layer 560, thedistribution of light from one or more of the plurality of LEDs 550 canbe more uniform across the illuminable fabric 500, rather as separatepoint sources of light provided by individual LEDs. It should beappreciated that, while shown as being coupled directly to the secondfabric layer 514, the illustrated diffuser 560 can be directly coupledwith the fabric substrate 510 in other configurations.

Referring now to FIG. 6, a partial sectional view of yet another exampleilluminable fabric 600 is shown. The illuminable fabric 600 is similarto the illuminable fabrics 100, 200, 300, 500 of FIGS. 1-3 and 5.Specifically, the illuminable fabric 600 comprises a fabric substrate610, a first set of conductive wires 620, a second set of conductivewires 630, and a plurality of LEDs 650. Similar to FIGS. 2-3 and 5, thepartial sectional view of FIG. 6 is taken at a location where one of theplurality of LEDs 650 is electrically coupled with the first and secondset of conductive wires 620, 630.

In the example illuminable fabric 600, the fabric substrate 610 includesthe first and second sets of conductive wires 620, 630 arranged onopposing sides of the fabric substrate 610. More specifically, the firstset of conductive wires 620 can be arranged on a first side 613, and thesecond set of conductive wires 630 can be arranged on a second side 615,of the fabric substrate 610. In this manner, the fabric substrate 610can separate and electrically insulate the first and second sets ofconductive wires 623, 630, similar to insulation layers 218, 318 anddielectric sheet of material 558 described above.

The fabric substrate 610 can also define a plurality of apertures 612through which an LED 650 can be electrically coupled with one of thefirst set of conductive wires 620. As mentioned above, the first andsecond set of conductive wires 620, 630 can be integrated directly intothe fabric substrate 610, can be arranged on the fabric substrate 610 bybeing adhered to or formed on the fabric substrate 610 or one of itslayers, e.g., via an adhesive or by lamination, or a combinationthereof.

Each of the plurality of LEDs 650 includes a first terminal 652 and asecond terminal 654 through which the LED 650 can be energized. Thefirst terminal 652 can be electrically coupled with one of the first setof conductive wires 620, and the second terminal 654 can be electricallycoupled with one of the second set of conductive wires 630. As shown inFIG. 6, the first terminal 652 can be electrically coupled with one ofthe first set of conductive wires 620 through one of the apertures 612formed in the fabric substrate 610.

While a single LED 650 is shown in FIG. 6, it should be appreciated thatthe plurality of LEDs 650 can be coupled to the fabric substrate 610 asa group rather than individually. It should also be appreciated thatgroups of less than the entire plurality of LEDs 650 may be arranged onfabric substrate 610 such that one group of LEDs, multiple groups ofLEDs, or individual LEDs may be coupled to the same fabric substrate610. While not specifically illustrated in FIG. 6, the presentdisclosure also contemplates that the plurality of LEDs 650 can becoupled to, or form a part of, a dielectric sheet, as described above.

The connection between the first and second terminals 652, 654 and thefirst and second sets of conductive wires 620, 630, respectively, cantake any acceptable form. In the illustrated example, a conductive trace656 is utilized to electrically couple the first and second sets ofwires 620, 630 and the first and second terminals 652, 654,respectively. In another example, an intermediate conductive layer (notshown), such as an anisotropic conductive film or solution processedconductive film, could be utilized to electrically couple the wires 620,630 and the LEDs 650. In yet another example, and as described abovewith respect to FIG. 4, one or more of the terminals 652, 654 can beelectrically coupled with a contact pad that is electrically coupledwith the wires 620, 630.

While the example fabric substrate 610 is illustrated as a single layer,it should be appreciated that the fabric substrate 610 can beconstructed of one or a plurality of layers. It should also beappreciated that the illuminable fabric 600 as illustrated could bemodified to include layers/elements (diffuser layers, insulation layers,additional LEDs or other electronic components, etc.) in addition tothose illustrated without departing from the teachings of the presentdisclosure. For example only, the illuminable fabric 600 could bemodified by being encapsulated with an insulating adhesive or otherlayer to provide physical protection, electrically insulation, etc. tothe illuminable fabric 600. While not specifically illustrated ordescribed, such modifications are within the scope of the presentdisclosure.

Referring now to FIGS. 7A and 7B, a partial perspective view and apartial sectional view, respectively, of yet another example illuminablefabric 700 is shown. The illuminable fabric 700 is similar to theilluminable fabrics 100, 200, 300, 500, 600 of FIGS. 1-3 and 5-6.Specifically, the illuminable fabric 700 comprises a fabric substrate710, a first set of conductive wires 720, a second set of conductivewires 730, and a plurality of LEDs 750. The plurality of LEDs 750 areillustrated as being coupled to a dielectric sheet 758, similar todielectric sheet 458 described above.

In the example illuminable fabric 700, the first and second set ofconductive wires 720, 730 can be arranged on the fabric substrate 710.The first set of conductive wires 720 can extend longitudinally in afirst direction 740, and the second set of conductive wires 730 canextend longitudinally in a second direction 745. In some aspects, and asshown in FIG. 7, the first and second directions 740, 745 can besubstantially orthogonal to each other. In other aspects, the first andsecond directions 740, 745 can be substantially parallel to each other(not shown), or arranged in any other orientation.

In the example illuminable fabric 700, one or more insulators 718 arecoupled to the fabric substrate 710. The one or more insulators 718electrically insulate each of the first set of conductive wires 720 fromeach of the second set of conductive wires 730 at locations where thesewires 720, 730 are in proximity, e.g., at locations where the wires 720,730 cross (see FIG. 7A). The partial sectional view of FIG. 7B is takenat a location where wires 720, 730 cross. In this manner, each of theplurality of LEDs 750 can be coupled to one of both the first and secondsets of conductive wires 720, 730 without requiring an electricalconnection (such as a conductive trace 756 as illustrated) to extendthrough an aperture defined by a layer of the fabric substrate 710.

The remaining aspects of the illuminable fabric 700 are similar to theother illuminable fabrics 100, 200, etc. described above. The first andsecond set of conductive wires 720, 730 can be integrated directly intothe fabric substrate 710, can be arranged on the fabric substrate 710 bybeing adhered to or formed on the fabric substrate 710 or one of itslayers, e.g., via an adhesive or by lamination, by being weaved or knitwithin the fabric substrate 710, or a combination thereof. Each of theplurality of LEDs 750 includes a first terminal 752 and a secondterminal 754 through which the LED 750 can be energized. The firstterminal 752 can be electrically coupled with one of the first set ofconductive wires 720, and the second terminal 754 can be electricallycoupled with one of the second set of conductive wires 730.

While a single LED 750 is shown in FIG. 7A, it should be appreciatedthat the plurality of LEDs 750 can be coupled to the fabric substrate710 as a group rather than individually. It should also be appreciatedthat groups of less than the entire plurality of LEDs 750 may bearranged on fabric substrate 710 such that one group of LEDs, multiplegroups of LEDs, or individual LEDs may be coupled to the same fabricsubstrate 710. In the illustrated embodiment, an LED 750 is attached toa dielectric sheet 758, in a manner similar to the LED assembly 400described above.

The connection between the first and second terminals 752, 754 and thefirst and second sets of conductive wires 720, 730, respectively, cantake any acceptable form. In the illustrated example, a conductive trace756 is utilized to electrically couple the first and second sets ofwires 720, 730 and the first and second terminals 752, 754,respectively. In another example, an intermediate conductive layer (notshown), such as an anisotropic conductive film or solution processedconductive film, could be utilized to electrically couple the wires 720,730 and the LEDs 750. In yet another example, and as described abovewith respect to FIG. 4, one or more of the terminals 752, 754 can beelectrically coupled with a contact pad that is electrically coupledwith the wires 720, 730.

While the example fabric substrate 710 is illustrated as a single layer,it should be appreciated that the fabric substrate 710 can beconstructed of one or a plurality of layers. It should also beappreciated that the illuminable fabric 700 as illustrated could bemodified to include layers/elements (diffuser layers, insulation layers,additional LEDs or other electronic components, etc.) in addition tothose illustrated without departing from the teachings of the presentdisclosure. For example only, the illuminable fabric 700 could bemodified by being encapsulated with an insulating adhesive or otherlayer to provide physical protection, electrically insulation, etc. tothe illuminable fabric 700. While not specifically illustrated ordescribed, such modifications are within the scope of the presentdisclosure.

The illuminable fabrics 100, 200, 300, 500, 600, and 700 can be utilizedto form a part of any type of ultimate end product. For example only,the illuminable fabrics 100, 200, 300, 500, 600, and 700 can form aportion of a wearable product or device, such as clothing. Other typesof products that can be formed from the described illuminable fabrics100, 200, 300, 500, 600, and 700 include, but are not limited to,billboards, building materials, window coverings, wallpaper, cubiclepartitions, protective clothing, medical covering (bandages, wrappings,clothing, etc.), bedding and bedding covers/sheets, automotive lighting,flexible displays, sensors, and camouflage.

Furthermore, the present disclosure should not be limited to thespecific example implementations of the electronic or illuminablefabrics described above. It should be appreciated that feature(s) fromone of the examples above could be combined with (or replace) feature(s)from another one of the examples and still be within the scope of thepresent disclosure. For example only, the LED assembly 400 with thedielectric sheet 458 illustrated in FIG. 4 (and/or the dielectric sheetof material 558 shown in FIG. 5) can be utilized and combined with anyof the specific implementations shown in FIGS. 2-3 and 6. In sucharrangements, the LED assembly 400/dielectric sheet of material 558 canbe coupled to one or more fabric layers (214, 216, 314, 316, etc.). Oneor more of the fabric layers or the dielectric sheets may defineapertures through which the terminals of the LED or other electronicdevice may be coupled. In this manner, the present disclosure describesa flexible design for an electronic fabric that can be adapted based onthe intended use and application of the electronic fabric.

Example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will bethorough, and will fully convey the scope to those who are skilled inthe art. Numerous specific details are set forth such as examples ofspecific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thoroughunderstanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will beapparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not beemployed, that example embodiments may be embodied in many differentforms and that neither should be construed to limit the scope of thedisclosure. In some example embodiments, well-known procedures,well-known device structures, and well-known technologies are notdescribed in detail.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particularexample embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As usedherein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” may be intended toinclude the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicatesotherwise. The term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one ormore of the associated listed items. The terms “comprises,”“comprising,” “including,” and “having,” are inclusive and thereforespecify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations,elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence oraddition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations,elements, components, and/or groups thereof. The method steps,processes, and operations described herein are not to be construed asnecessarily requiring their performance in the particular orderdiscussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as an order ofperformance. It is also to be understood that additional or alternativesteps may be employed.

Although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein todescribe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections,these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should notbe limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguishone element, component, region, layer or section from another region,layer or section. Terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numericalterms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearlyindicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region,layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element,component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachingsof the example embodiments.

The foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided forpurposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to beexhaustive or to limit the disclosure. Individual elements or featuresof a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particularembodiment, but, where applicable, are interchangeable and can be usedin a selected embodiment, even if not specifically shown or described.The same may also be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to beregarded as a departure from the disclosure, and all such modificationsare intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure.

What is claimed is:
 1. An illuminable fabric, comprising: a first fabriclayer including a first set of conductive wires being woven therein andextending longitudinally in a first direction, the first fabric layerdefining a plurality of first apertures; a second fabric layer coupledto the dielectric sheet and including a second set of conductive wiresbeing woven therein and extending longitudinally in a second direction;an insulation layer arranged between the first and second fabric layers,the insulation layer electrically insulating the first set of conductivewires from the second set of conductive wires; and a plurality ofdielectric sheets arranged between the first and second fabric layers,each of the plurality of dielectric sheets including a light emittingdiode (LED) having a first terminal electrically coupled with a firstcontact pad and a second terminal electrically coupled to a secondcontact pad, wherein the first terminal of each LED is electricallycoupled with one of the first set of conductive wires through one of theplurality of first apertures, the second terminal of each LED iselectrically coupled with one of the second set of conductive wires, andeach LED is individually addressable.
 2. The illuminable fabric of claim1, wherein each of the plurality of dielectric sheets defines a secondaperture, and the second terminal of each LED is electrically coupledwith one of the second set of conductive wires through the secondaperture.
 3. The illuminable fabric of claim 2, wherein the seconddirection is substantially orthogonal to the first direction.
 4. Theilluminable fabric of claim 3, further comprising a diffuser coupled tothe first and second fabric layer, the diffuser configured to providediffusion of light generated by the plurality of LEDs.
 5. Theilluminable fabric of claim 4, wherein the insulation layer comprises anadhesive used to couple the first fabric layer to the second fabriclayer.
 6. The illuminable fabric of claim 4, wherein the insulationlayer comprises a plurality of insulators that electrically insulateeach of the first set of conductive wires from each of the second set ofconductive wires at locations where the wires cross.
 7. The illuminablefabric of claim 1, wherein the second direction is substantiallyorthogonal to the first direction.
 8. The illuminable fabric of claim 7,further comprising a diffuser coupled to the first and second fabriclayer, the diffuser configured to provide diffusion of light generatedby the plurality of LEDs.
 9. The illuminable fabric of claim 8, whereinthe insulation layer comprises an adhesive used to couple the firstfabric layer to the second fabric layer.
 10. The illuminable fabric ofclaim 8, wherein the insulation layer comprises a plurality ofinsulators that electrically insulate each of the first set ofconductive wires from each of the second set of conductive wires atlocations where the wires cross.
 11. The illuminable fabric of claim 1,further comprising a diffuser coupled to the first and second fabriclayer, the diffuser configured to provide diffusion of light generatedby the plurality of LEDs.
 12. The illuminable fabric of claim 11,wherein the insulation layer comprises an adhesive used to couple thefirst fabric layer to the second fabric layer.
 13. The illuminablefabric of claim 11, wherein the insulation layer comprises a pluralityof insulators that electrically insulate each of the first set ofconductive wires from each of the second set of conductive wires atlocations where the wires cross.
 14. The illuminable fabric of claim 1,wherein the insulation layer comprises an adhesive used to couple thefirst fabric layer to the second fabric layer.
 15. The illuminablefabric of claim 1, wherein the insulation layer comprises a plurality ofinsulators that electrically insulate each of the first set ofconductive wires from each of the second set of conductive wires atlocations where the wires cross.
 16. The illuminable fabric of claim 2,further comprising a diffuser coupled to the first and second fabriclayer, the diffuser configured to provide diffusion of light generatedby the plurality of LEDs.
 17. The illuminable fabric of claim 16,wherein the insulation layer comprises an adhesive used to couple thefirst fabric layer to the second fabric layer.
 18. The illuminablefabric of claim 16, wherein the insulation layer comprises a pluralityof insulators that electrically insulate each of the first set ofconductive wires from each of the second set of conductive wires atlocations where the wires cross.
 19. The illuminable fabric of claim 2,wherein the insulation layer comprises an adhesive used to couple thefirst fabric layer to the second fabric layer.
 20. The illuminablefabric of claim 2, wherein the insulation layer comprises a plurality ofinsulators that electrically insulate each of the first set ofconductive wires from each of the second set of conductive wires atlocations where the wires cross.